Ketamine Infusion Therapy in Indianapolis

We Understand Your Pain

For some patients, IV ketamine infusion therapy may be more effective in treating pain than oral painkiller medication. At American Pain Consortium, these infusions may be a part of your comprehensive treatment plan including physical therapy and other procedures.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is an anesthetic/analgesic medication that has been available and FDA-approved since the early 1960s. The safety of ketamine lies in its ability to relieve pain while at the same time not causing a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, or respiration. The risk for overdose on ketamine is almost nonexistent, particularly compared to opioid medications like morphine or fentanyl.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Pain Control

In the last several decades, numerous peer-reviewed studies in highly respected and well-known scientific publications have demonstrated the usefulness of ketamine infusions in treating chronic pain with sub-anesthetic low doses. The majority of research published shows that ketamine not only provides rapid relief but that it has a very high success rate.

To discuss IV ketamine infusion therapy and whether you would be a suitable candidate, please contact us online or give us a call.

How Safe is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine infusions are safe and effective as a long-term improvement of chronic pain symptoms depending on the causes of your pain and health history. Ketamine treatment may also help patients who want to reduce their use of opioid medications.

Does IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy Have Side Effects?

Ketamine has some minimal side effects which are only experienced during your infusion session, during which you will be monitored continuously. Some possible side effects include emotional dissociation, a “light” or “floating on air” sensation, a mild uptick in heart rate, a mild increase in blood pressure, light-headedness, euphoria, and nausea.

Am I a Candidate for IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

This procedure may not be appropriate for patients who have high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias, or other conditions. American Pain Consortium may recommend other treatments – such as a spinal cord stimulator implant – for patients who are not ideal candidates for infusion treatment.

Patients who often respond well to ketamine therapy include those with fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), phantom limb syndrome, migraine, and spinal cord injuries.

Benefits Associated with Ketamine Infusion Therapy

Ketamine infusion therapy is a treatment that involves administering a low dose of ketamine intravenously to alleviate chronic pain. Here are a few benefits associated with this type of therapy:

1. Rapid Pain Relief: Ketamine infusion therapy has been found to provide rapid and effective pain relief in patients suffering from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and complex regional pain syndrome. The effects of ketamine infusion therapy can be felt within hours to days after treatment and can last for several weeks.

2. Non-addictive: Unlike traditional pain medications such as opioids, ketamine infusion therapy is not addictive. This makes it a safer option for patients who need long-term pain management.

3. Improved Mental Health: Chronic pain can have a significant impact on a person's mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Ketamine infusion therapy has been found to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with chronic pain.

4. Minimal Side Effects: Ketamine infusion therapy is generally well-tolerated and has minimal side effects. Some patients may experience mild side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or blurred vision during treatment, but these usually subside shortly after treatment.

5. Alternative Treatment Option: For patients who have not found relief from other pain management therapies, ketamine infusion therapy can be a viable alternative. It can be particularly effective for patients who have developed a tolerance to other pain medications or who are unable to tolerate their side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions can be treated with ketamine infusion therapy?

• Ketamine infusion therapy has shown promise in treating severe depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain.

How long does a typical ketamine infusion therapy session last?

• A typical ketamine infusion therapy session can last anywhere from 40 minutes to a few hours, depending on the specific protocol and the individual's response to the treatment.

How many sessions of ketamine infusion therapy are typically needed for optimal results?

• The number of sessions can vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the treatment. Typically, a series of sessions are recommended initially, followed by maintenance infusions as needed.

Is ketamine infusion therapy safe?

• Ketamine is a well-studied medication that has been used safely for many years. When administered by qualified medical professionals in a controlled setting, ketamine infusion therapy is generally considered to be safe. However, it is important to discuss any potential risks or side effects with your doctor.

What should I expect during a ketamine infusion session?

• During an infusion session, you will be monitored by medical professionals. You may experience a sense of relaxation or disassociation. It's important to communicate any sensations or concerns to a specialist at American Pain Consortium.

Is ketamine infusion therapy suitable for everyone?

• Individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are taking specific medications may need to avoid this treatment.

Can ketamine infusion therapy be combined with other treatments?

• In some cases, it can be combined with other treatments, such as psychotherapy or medication. Your doctor can help you determine the best approach for your individual needs.

To discuss IV ketamine infusion therapy and whether you would be a suitable candidate, please contact us.